Save A vibrant and artful fruit and vegetable platter featuring tender asparagus stems arranged like a blossoming tree, surrounded by fresh seasonal fruits. Perfect for springtime gatherings or as a stunning appetizer centerpiece.
This platter always impresses my guests with its fresh flavors and artistic presentation.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 16–20 spears) trimmed, 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for blanching)
- Fruits: 1 cup strawberries hulled and halved, 1 cup seedless grapes (red and/or green), 1 cup blueberries, 1 orange peeled and segmented, 1 cup pineapple cut into bite-size pieces, 1 kiwi peeled and sliced, 1 apple sliced, 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds (optional)
- Cheese & Extras (optional): 1/2 cup goat cheese or feta crumbled, 1/4 cup roasted nuts (e.g. almonds pistachios or walnuts), honey or balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Blanch Asparagus:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add asparagus and cook for 12 minutes until bright green and just tender. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking. Pat dry.
- Arrange Asparagus:
- On a large serving board arrange the asparagus stems in the shape of a tree trunk and branches fanning them out to resemble a blossoming tree.
- Add Fruit:
- Artistically arrange the fruit pieces around and above the asparagus branches to mimic flowers and foliage. Use a variety of colors and shapes for a vibrant look.
- Add Extras:
- If using sprinkle cheese and nuts over the fruit and asparagus. Drizzle lightly with honey or balsamic glaze.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately providing small tongs or skewers for easy serving.
Save Our family enjoys gathering around this colorful board and picking their favorite fruits and veggies together.
Notes
For extra flair add edible flowers or fresh mint leaves. Substitute or add any of your favorite seasonal fruits. Serve with a side of yogurt dip or whipped ricotta for dipping.
Required Tools
Large serving board or platter, sharp knife, small bowls (for dips optional), tongs or skewers.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (if cheese is included) and tree nuts (if nuts are included). This board is gluten-free and vegetarian. Always check labels for hidden allergens in cheese or glaze products.
Save This asparagus stem floral fruit board is both a feast for the eyes and the palate, ideal for sharing on any occasion.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I prepare the asparagus for the board?
Blanch the asparagus in boiling salted water for 1–2 minutes until bright green and just tender, then plunge into ice water to stop cooking and retain crispness.
- → What fruits pair best with asparagus in this arrangement?
Fresh berries like strawberries and blueberries, grapes, citrus segments, pineapple, kiwi, apple slices, and pomegranate seeds create a vibrant and balanced flavor contrast.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Arrange fruits and asparagus shortly before serving to maintain freshness, but you can blanch asparagus and prep fruit earlier, keeping them refrigerated separately.
- → What optional toppings enhance this platter?
Crumbled goat cheese or feta, roasted nuts, and a light drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze bring additional richness and texture.
- → Are there any suggested accompaniments?
Serving with yogurt dip or whipped ricotta adds a creamy element complementing the fresh and crisp textures.